Cast-iron gray ceramic can renew the appearance of otherwise unsightly cast-iron exhaust manifolds. Trail first coats the manifold silver and, once cured, lightly media-blasts the surface to promote adhesion and applies cast-iron gray ceramic.
To prevent this situation from occurring, we suggest that hobbyists break in a new engine's flat-tappet camshaft prior to coating headers in silver ceramic. If the headers are already coated, we suggest temporarily installing another set of headers, or even the original exhaust manifolds, during break-in to minimize the risk of permanent header discoloration.
Conclusion
Like many hobbyists we, too, assumed that ceramic-coating was little more than an exterior finish designed to keep tubular headers looking new. But after our conversation with Trail, we have a much better understanding of its attributes and benefits in myriad applications and colors. Not only can it reduce underhood operating temperature and possibly improve performance, the fact that it requires little maintenance makes it ideal for any number of automotive uses. So before you head to your local hardware store to purchase common rattle-can products when detailing your Pontiac, consider that a small investment in ceramic-coating could keep it looking good with minimal maintenance for years to come.